Emmer for Governor

Thursday, December 3, 2009 · Saint Paul · Filed under: Budget

Rep. Tom Emmer, Republican candidate for governor, spoke out Wednesday on the state’s projected $1.2 billion deficit. Emmer has offered legislation which would require the legislature to balance the state budget before any new spending is proposed.

“My bill, First Things First, would require the legislature to address any budget shortfall before any new spending is added to the taxpayers’ burden.” Emmer said, “This bill would force the big spenders in Saint Paul to focus on fixing the problem before they add to it.”

Emmer expressed hope that in the next legislative session the majority party would be more willing to take his common sense proposal seriously.

“I authored the same bill last session and the Democrat leadership wouldn’t even allow a vote on it. With business and family budgets at a breaking point, it only makes sense that we pass this bill into law this time around.”

At a time when Minnesotans are struggling, Rep. Emmer believes that to stimulate the economy and encourage job creation, the state government should act responsibly and not overburden Minnesotans and job creators.

“We will get out of this recession faster if Minnesota’s people and businesses are allowed to flourish. It is a mistake to think that government can lead the way with big government, Obama-style pork programs.”

Emmer stressed that creating an environment where business and free enterprise can flourish will solve the budget crisis by encouraging the creation of desperately needed private-sector jobs.

“This deficit puts into focus the importance of electing a governor who is serious about reigning in the growth of state government spending and fostering the expansion of private enterprise,” said Emmer.

“We got into debt by driving away jobs and the businesses through high taxes and stifling regulations. Minnesota needs a governor who understands that freedom and private enterprise are the engines that drive Minnesota, not a bloated state government.”

Tom Emmer, 48, his wife, Jacquie, and seven children live in Delano. Emmer is the State Representative for House District 19B and a Republican candidate for Governor.